Voluntary Warden Scheme

The Conservation Group encourages members and other volunteers to act as volunteer wardens. The aim of this scheme is to have a number of people who visit the copse from time to time to keep an eye on things and to report back any issues of interest or concern to the group. They are thee eyes and ears of the Group. These guidelines are to help voluntary wardens to know how the scheme works and what action to take to report issues to the conservation group.

1. Voluntary Wardens agree to visit the copse on a regular basis. The frequency of the visits is a matter for the individual to determine and to notify the Group. Once a week would be very helpful, but if individual wardens want to agree a more or less frequent arrangement, that is still very helpful. Occasional visits are still very important.
2. Wardens should report back to the Secretary or Chairman the following types of issues:
• damage to trees, fences etc. in the Copse
• acts of vandalism
• fires (urgently)
• unacceptable conduct by members of the public (and dogs)
• interesting observations of wildlife
• ideas on maintenance required to the Copse
• incidents of cycling in the Copse (which is not permitted)
• issues raised by members of the public visiting the Copse
• any other information that may be helpful to the Group
3. Leaflets about the Copse are normally available from the leaflet boxes within the Copse. However, Wardens may wish to carry a supply of these to give out to interested visitor. These are available from the Secretary.
4. Carrying a mobile phone in case of emergencies is useful, if you have one.
5. Wardens should deal with the public in a courteous and friendly manner. You must avoid getting into confrontational situations with visitors. It is appropriate to ask politely what someone is doing if, for example, their activities seem suspicious. Most people will react reasonably to this. However, if confrontational situations develop, you must withdraw and report the issue to the group or, in extreme cases, the police.
6. People do, unfortunately, light fires in the Copse. Do not attempt to put these out on your own. If they are minor they will probably extinguish themselves in time. However, if in doubt contact the Group or in more serious cases, phone the fire brigade.
7. We suggest you read the booklet on the history and natural history of the Copse (available from the Secretary) to ensure you can answer routine questions from the public. However, if you can't answer specific questions, do not worry. Refer them back to us and we will make sure that the person asking the question is provided with an answer. You can't be an expert on everything (and many of us are not experts on anything!).
8. Enjoy your time as a warden in the Copse. Much of this work will be enjoyable, relaxing and pleasant. It is important that people realise that we do have a regular presence in the Copse and that the area is being conserved and protected.

For more information, please contact The Chairman (01243 528753)

or The Secretary (01243 527672).